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Natural Resources Canada

2017-2020 Departmental Sustainable

Development Strategy

October 2017

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© Her Majesty the Queen in Right of Canada, as represented by the Minister of Natural Resources, 2017 Cat. No. M2-16E-PDF ISSN 2561-2530 Aussi disponible en français sous le titre : Ressources naturelles Canada Stratégie ministérielle de développement durable 2017-2020 Copies are available through NRCan’s Web site: http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/plans-performance-reports/201

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Table of Contents

Executive summary ............................................................................................................................... 4

Section 1: Context for the Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy ............................................. 4

Section 2: Sustainable Development at Natural Resources Canada ............................................................. 5

Section 3: Commitments for Natural Resources Canada .............................................................................. 9

Clean Energy ............................................................................................................................................. 9

Clean Growth .......................................................................................................................................... 12

Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests ................................................................................................ 15

Low-Carbon Government ....................................................................................................................... 18

Effective Action on Climate Change ........................................................................................................ 21

Modern and Resilient Infrastructure ...................................................................................................... 25

Healthy Coasts and Oceans ..................................................................................................................... 27

Pristine Lakes and Rivers ......................................................................................................................... 28

Safe and Healthy Communities ............................................................................................................... 30

Section 4. Integrating sustainable development ........................................................................................ 33

Conclusion ................................................................................................................................................... 34

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Executive summary

The Government of Canada is committed to a clean-growth future built on the dual cornerstones

of economic prosperity and environmental protection. Central to this vision is sustainable

development, which is defined as our ability to meet the needs of the present without

compromising the ability of future generations to meet their own needs.

The Government’s plan for sustainable development begins with the Federal Sustainable

Development Strategy (FSDS). It sets out the Government’s priorities, establishes its goals and

targets, identifies actions to achieve those objectives, and provides performance indicators to

measure the results. For example, the 2016-19 FSDS outlined 13 long-term goals to promote

clean growth, ensure healthy ecosystems and build safe, secure and sustainable communities.

Natural Resources Canada (NRCan) has a significant role to play in these federal efforts by

promoting the sustainable development of Canada’s energy, minerals, metals, and forests. This

includes producing geographical, geological and other vital scientific information to support

decision making about Canada’s land-based and offshore resources, as well as the

management of these lands.

This 2017-20 Departmental Sustainable Development Strategy (DSDS) outlines how NRCan

contributes to the Government’s long-term goals in the FSDS by promoting environmental

stewardship at the same time that it helps ensure that Canada’s natural resource sectors are

globally competitive, that Canadians are making smart, environmentally sound consumer

purchases and that our lands and resources are being wisely managed to ensure greater public

safety.

The DSDS is also an opportunity for NRCan to demonstrate its contributions to important

domestic initiatives and international commitments — including the Pan-Canadian Framework

on Clean Growth and Climate Change, which is a blueprint to reduce Canada’s greenhouse gas

emissions, spur innovation, adapt to climate change and create good jobs across the country. It

also illustrates how the Department supports the Minister of Natural Resources in addressing

priorities set by the Prime Minister. As part of these efforts to advance sustainable development

in concrete ways, the Department works closely with partners such as the provinces and

territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, industry, academia and non-governmental

organizations.

This three-year DSDS will be updated annually to reflect new and emerging priorities and

initiatives that further improve the quality of life of Canadians and ensure Canada’s place as one

of the greenest countries in the world.

Section 1: Context for the Departmental Sustainable Development

Strategy The 2016–19 Federal Sustainable Development Strategy (FSDS) presents the Government of

Canada’s sustainable development goals and targets, as required by the Federal Sustainable

Development Act. In keeping with the objectives of the Act to integrate environmental, social

http://fsds-sfdd.ca/index.html#/en/goals/

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-8.6/index.html

http://laws-lois.justice.gc.ca/eng/acts/F-8.6/index.html

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and economic considerations into decision-making, and make such decisions more transparent

and accountable to Parliament, NRCan supports reaching the goals laid out in the FSDS

through the activities described in this DSDS.

Section 2: Sustainable Development at Natural Resources Canada The sustainable development of Canada’s natural resources — including energy reserves,

minerals and metals, and forests — is a centrepiece of NRCan’s mandate achieved through the

promotion of clean growth for these sectors. The Department supports Canada’s resource

industries to ensure they remain a source of good jobs and enduring prosperity while also

helping them to adopt innovative new ways to enhance their competitiveness, improve their

environmental performance, strengthen their relationships with Indigenous peoples and build

public confidence.

Of the 13 long-term goals outlined in the 2016-19 FSDS, the Minister of Natural Resources is

responsible for leading on the Government’s Clean Energy goal and serves as a co-leader for

both Clean Growth and Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests. As well, the Minister shares

responsibilities for Low Carbon Government and is an important contributor on five other goals:

Effective Action on Climate Change, Modern and Resilient Infrastructure, Healthy Coasts and

Oceans, Pristine Lakes and Rivers, and Safe and Healthy Communities.

While NRCan’s departmental actions contribute to numerous FSDS goals at the same time,

they are presented only once in this DSDS to avoid repetition.

FSDS GOAL: CLEAN ENERGY All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy Minister of Natural Resources: lead

Canada already boasts one of the world’s cleanest electricity markets and its development of

clean technology is leading to other innovative energy solutions. Building on this success will be

essential to Canada’s transition to the low-carbon economy. A cleaner energy system will also

lower our greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions while increasing Canada’s climate resilience and

reducing our impact on our land and wildlife species.

The Prime Minister’s mandate letter to the Minister of Natural Resources makes clear that clean

energy is a top priority. For example, by working with the provinces and territories, the Minister

is developing a Canadian Energy Strategy to protect Canada’s energy security, encourage

energy conservation, and bring cleaner, renewable energy onto a smarter electricity grid.

The Prime Minister has also asked the Minister to work with the Minister of Environment and

Climate Change and the Minister of Foreign Affairs to develop an ambitious North American

clean energy and environmental agreement with the United States and Mexico.

In addition, the Minister leads or supports commitments under the Pan-Canadian Framework on

Clean Growth and Climate Change to deliver the FSDS’s Clean Energy goal. This includes

implementing new building codes and introducing energy efficiency measures to help

Canadians understand their energy use and save money on their utility bills. It also includes

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establishing new electric vehicle charging stations as well as natural gas and hydrogen

refuelling stations.

FSDS GOAL: CLEAN GROWTH A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy Minister of Natural Resources: co-lead

A strong economy and a clean environment must go hand in hand in the low-carbon economy.

Investing in clean technology and supporting innovation is a key part of that and will help

Canadian companies grow and position themselves as world leaders in the clean technology

market.

The Prime Minister’s mandate letter to the Minister of Natural Resources confirms the Clean

Growth goal as a top priority shared with the Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic

Development and emphasizes the importance of supporting clean technology producers to

tackle Canada’s most pressing environmental challenges while creating more opportunities for

Canadian workers. One of the ways NRCan is doing all of this is by investing in clean energy

technology to support the goals of Mission Innovation, a multi-country initiative to accelerate

global clean energy innovation and make clean energy more widely available and affordable.

FSDS GOAL: SUSTAINABLY MANAGED LANDS AND FORESTS Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide a variety of ecosystem services for generations to come Minister of Natural Resources: co-lead

Protecting and sustainably using lands and forests is necessary to ensure their long-term

benefits for Canada. These benefits are diverse and include protecting habitat for wildlife

populations and supporting the well-being of Canadians through ecosystem services, as well as

contributing to the Canadian economy and preserving traditional uses of lands and forests by

Indigenous peoples.

Under the Department of Natural Resources Act, the Minister is responsible for sustainable

development and the responsible use of Canada’s forest resources, as well as enhancing the

competitiveness of Canada’s forest products. In addition, the Forestry Act mandates the

Department’s Canadian Forest Service to conduct research and provide information and advice

to promote the protection, sustainable management, and wise use of forest resources. In

September 2016, the Canadian Council of Forest Ministers also committed the federal,

provincial and territorial governments to work together to develop a National Forest Bioeconomy

Framework by fall 2017 to support further economic growth in a clean and sustainable manner.

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FSDS GOAL: LOW-CARBON GOVERNMENT The Government of Canada leads by example by making its operations low-carbon Minister of Natural Resources: support (lead for his portfolio)

The Government of Canada is committed to leading efforts to combat climate change while

continuing to contribute to the broader economy. With its vast operations, its extensive use of

goods and services and its procurement practices, the Government has an opportunity to

support the transition to a low-carbon economy by stimulating the clean-tech sector, contributing

to Canada’s international climate change commitments and realizing substantial cost savings.

NRCan is supporting this FSDS goal through a range of measures to reduce its carbon footprint,

such as improving the energy efficiency of its own buildings, reducing its fleet emissions and

modernizing its infrastructure to support the use of electric vehicles. In addition, NRCan

supports other federal departments and agencies by providing technical advice to assist them in

developing and implementing their own projects to save energy and reduce GHG emissions.

FSDS GOAL: EFFECTIVE ACTION ON CLIMATE CHANGE A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius and supports efforts to limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius Minister of Natural Resources: support

Climate change is a pressing global problem that, if left unchecked, could affect the ability of

future generations to meet their basic needs. Effective action on climate change starts with the

transition to a low-carbon economy that reduces our GHG emissions while continuing to

increase our prosperity.

Under the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate Change, NRCan is leading

on a wide range of initiatives that includes extending ENERGY STAR® certification to industrial

buildings, improving the energy efficiency of vehicles and investing in green infrastructure such

as a national network of electrical vehicle charging stations. The Department also provides

knowledge and tools to Canadian communities to adapt to a changing climate and plans for

sectors to succeed in the new economy.

FSDS GOAL: MODERN AND RESILIENT INFRASTRUCTURE Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion Minister of Natural Resources: support

Green infrastructure, which includes everything from water and wastewater systems and clean

energy to climate resilient infrastructure (such as flood mitigation systems) and infrastructure to

protect against climate change, preserves the natural environment, supports healthy and

resilient communities, drives economic growth and improves our quality of life.

One of NRCan’s main priorities is to promote the transition towards low-carbon options in

transportation, as well as improving international regulatory alignments by enhancing energy

codes for buildings, to support this FSDS goal.

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FSDS GOAL: HEALTHY COASTS AND OCEANS

Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems Minister of Natural Resources: support

Canada has unparalleled ocean resources and protecting our waters is critical to the lives and

livelihoods of all Canadians. Increased development and marine shipping provide economic

benefits, but they also pose risks such as the potential for oil spills that have an environmental

impact on our fisheries and coastlines. In addition, preserving and expanding marine protected

areas will help address environmental challenges.

Working with other departments and agencies, NRCan generates scientific knowledge and

conducts economic analysis to support better protection of our coasts and oceans and assist

with oil spill prevention in targeted vulnerable areas.

FSDS GOAL: PRISTINE LAKES AND RIVERS Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians Minister of Natural Resources: support

Healthy lakes and rivers sustain a rich variety of plants and animals. They also supply drinking

water to millions of Canadians, provide opportunities for swimming, boating and recreational

fishing, and support economic activities such as tourism, commercial fisheries, agriculture and

shipping. All of these things can be threatened by pollution, climate change and invasive alien

species of plants and animals that affect our lakes and rivers and the benefits they provide.

NRCan generates scientific knowledge to advance our understanding of lake and river

ecosystems (including groundwater) and assists with protecting their health. The Department

also works with partners to advance water quality and the health of these ecosystems through

research and technology development that minimize the environmental effects of resource

development.

FSDS GOAL: SAFE AND HEALTHY COMMUNITIES All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being Minister of Natural Resources: support

Ensuring that Canadians enjoy a clean, safe environment in which to live is important to their

health and well-being. Among other things, this means reducing pollution to improve air quality,

protecting them from harmful substances and preventing environmental emergencies (or

reducing their impact if they do occur).

NRCan contributes to this FSDS goal by preventing and mitigating the impacts of natural and

human-made hazards. For example, the Department develops early warning tools for these

hazards and monitors environmental emergencies such as earthquakes, tsunamis, volcanoes

and landslides. Through its science and tools, NRCan assists other organizations with disaster

management and ecosystem monitoring. The Department also enhances the safety and

security of energy transportation infrastructure, such as oil and gas pipelines.

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Section 3: Commitments for Natural Resources Canada

Clean Energy: All Canadians have access to affordable, reliable and sustainable energy

Responsible Minister: Minister of Natural Resources

Clean Energy

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)

Corresponding departmental

action(s)

Contribution by each

departmental action to the

FSDS goal and target

Starting point(s) where available, and

performance indicators for departmental actions

Program(s) in which the

departmental actions will

occur

By 2030, 90% and in the

long term, 100% of

Canada’s electricity is

generated from renewable

and non-emitting sources

Invest in clean energy technologies Develop and demonstrate

advanced materials technologies for clean energy production

By improving the viability of

technologies, contribute to

increased deployment and

use of renewable and non-

emitting energy sources.

Number of innovative materials technologies

developed, contributed to, or validated by NRCan

for use in power generation systems.

Target: 2 over 3 years

2.2.1 Materials for Energy

Work with Atomic Energy Canada Limited and other federal departments to deliver the Federal Nuclear Science & Technology program

By advancing nuclear

research in support of core

federal mandates, including

clean energy, health and

non-proliferation, contribute

to energy generation from

non-emitting sources.

The number of discrete federal, provincial and

territorial activities and projects that are initiated.

Target: 5 discrete projects / initiatives undertaken

per year

1.1.3 Energy Market Access and Diversification

Promote collaboration and work with partners on clean energy

Identify, study and seek consensus on the most promising electricity infrastructure projects that can significantly reduce GHG emissions through the Regional Electricity Cooperation and Strategic Infrastructure initiative

By supporting the transition

to low-carbon economy,

contribute to electricity

infrastructure powered by

clean energy.

Number of quality products made available to

decision makers in a timely manner.

Target: Two regional reports that identify the most

promising electricity infrastructure projects that can

significantly reduce GHG emissions in the Western

and Eastern Canadian electricity systems by March

2018

2.1.2 Support for Clean Energy Decision-Making

Participate in the Generation IV International Forum, a multilateral endeavour and undertake research and development (R&D) to develop the next generation of nuclear energy systems

By articulating Canada's

approach to the management

of nuclear energy resources,

contribute to future energy

generation from non-emitting

sources.


territorial activities and projects that are initiated

Target: 5 discrete projects/ initiatives undertaken

per year


Support voluntary action to reduce GHG

Continue actions to support renewable energy deployment to:


towards non-emitting

Number of terawatt-hours (TWh) of renewable

electricity produced 2.1.1 Renewable Energy Deployment

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Clean Energy

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption

Support the generation of electricity from renewable sources by providing support through the ecoENERGY for Renewable Power program

sources in clean electricity,

contribute to industry

capacity to produce

renewable forms of energy.

Target: 12 TWh (equivalent to the annual power consumption of a typical Canadian city of about 750,000 people)

Develop recommendations for federal government consideration through the Marine Renewable Energy Enabling Measures program on a legislative approach for administering renewable energy projects in federal offshore areas

By developing a legislative framework allowing to administer marine renewable energy projects in the federal offshore, contribute to future electricity generation from renewable sources.

Starting point: There is no existing legislative

framework

Target: A legislative framework is in place by 2019

2.1.1 Renewable Energy Deployment

Support voluntary action to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions through clean energy generation and consumption1

Provide a new suite of tools to

support consumers’ vehicle

purchasing decisions and

encourage fuel-efficient driving

behaviours


to a cleaner transportation

system and making low-

carbon vehicles more

attractive to Canadians,

contribute to reductions in

energy consumption.

% of vehicle purchases influenced by NRCan fuel

efficiency information products and tools (qualitative

analysis on usefulness of information provided)

Target: Under development in parallel with

indicators for other departmental reporting

requirements

2.1.3 Alternative Transportation Fuels

Invest in clean energy technologies1

Support Finance Canada and

Environment and Climate Change Canada in identifying and phasing out inefficient fossil fuel subsidies by 2025

By identifying and phasing

out inefficient fossil fuel

subsidies that encourage

wasteful consumption,

contribute to increased

deployment and use of

renewable and non-emitting

energy sources.

Year by which fossil fuel subsidies have been

phased out.

Target: fossil fuel subsidies are phased out by 2025


1 NRCan contributes to the FSDS goal through additional departmental sustainable development actions.

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Clean Energy

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Add a certification component for high-performing commercial and institutional buildings to the

ENERGY STAR® Portfolio

Manager benchmarking tools to allow building owners to compare their energy use and prompt them to make improvements

By providing energy

management tools,

contribute to energy

efficiency in Canada's

commercial sector.

Starting point: There is no existing certification

program for buildings

Target: Introduction of ENERGY STAR®

certification for buildings by 2018

2.1.4 Energy Efficiency

Launch the ENERGY STAR® for Industry program in Canada and offer plant certification to 2-3 industry sectors to recognize high performers

By raising awareness of the

benefits of energy

management in industry

operations, contribute to

energy efficiency.

Energy saved in petajoules from energy efficiency

programs

Target: 23.2 petajoules saved annually (equivalent

to the annual energy used by more than 208,800

typical Canadian households, excluding

transportation) in 2021-22


Accelerate the adoption of ISO 50001, an innovative energy management system in the industrial sector

By helping to improve energy

management in Canada's

industrial sector, contribute to

energy efficiency.

Energy saved in petajoules from energy efficiency

programs




transportation) in 2021-22


Play a leading role in international agreements and initiatives involving clean energy1

Advance Canada’s clean energy and climate mitigation goals through bilateral partnerships and under the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change, the North American Clean Energy and Environment Agreement, Mission Innovation, the International Energy Agency, and the Clean Energy Ministerial process, as well as the G7 & G20, among others

By working alongside

international partners,

contribute to further

advancing clean growth,

clean energy and climate

change mitigation goals and

the long-term

decarbonisation of the

economy.

Number of international bilateral and multilateral

engagements with countries and organizations

undertaken to advance clean energy with key

partners (signed at the Assistant Deputy Minister

level or above).


territorial activities and projects that are initiated

Target: 5 discrete projects / initiatives undertaken

per year

1.1.3 Energy Market Access and Diversification 2.1.2 Support for Clean Energy Decision-making. 2.2.3 Clean Energy Science and Technology

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Clean Energy

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Number of assessments and/or updates to energy

regulations or legislation and/or Canada's energy

regulatory or legislative frameworks

Target: 2 per year

Clean Growth: A growing clean technology industry in Canada contributes to clean growth and the transition to a low-carbon economy

Responsible Minister: Minister of Innovation, Science and Economic Development and Minister of Natural Resources

Clean Growth

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Implement our Mission

Innovation commitment to

double federal

government investments

in clean energy research,

development and

demonstration, by 2020,

from 2015 levels

Work with partners on developing and adopting new technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions

Advance international collaboration on clean energy RD&D through Mission Innovation by implementing domestic initiatives.

By funding clean energy

development and

demonstration projects that

reduce cost and address

technical hurdles, contribute

to the deployment of next-

generation of clean energy

technologies.

Ratio of NRCan program investments in clean

energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners

Target: 1:1 ratio

Starting point: Federal investments of $387 million

in clean energy RD&D in 2014-2015

Doubling Government of Canada’s federal

investments for clean energy RD&D

Target: Federal investments of $775 million in clean

energy RD&D by 2019-20.

2.2.3 Clean Energy Science and Technology

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Clean Growth

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Invest in technologies to reduce GHG and air pollutant emissions1 Support the development of

technologies to reduce energy consumption in mining and milling and eliminate diesel replacing it with alternative energy sources in underground mines under the Green Mining Initiative

By expanding RD&D cooperation and investment, contribute to a reduction in reliance on diesel and in energy consumption.

Number of demonstration projects implemented supporting the development of one or more technologies. Target: 3 demonstration projects implemented by 2023, i.e.:

“Tackling comminution, the largest energy consumer in mining”;

“Benchmarking and automation for energy efficiency underground”; and

“Replacing diesel in underground mines”

2.2.2 Green Mining

Implement the Government of Canada’s actions to develop clean technologies to reduce GHG emission, air pollutants and water uses in the energy sector through initiatives such as:

Energy Innovation Program

Clean Growth Innovation Program (with Agriculture and Agri-Food Canada and Fisheries and Oceans Canada),

Oil and Gas Clean Technology Program,

Impact Canada Fund, Clean Technology Stream

By funding clean technology development and demonstration projects that reduce cost and address technical hurdles, contribute to the deployment of next-generation of clean technologies.


technology to leveraged funding from partners

Target: 1:1 ratio

Starting point: emission levels of 2016-17

Through NRCan supported RD&D, reduce GHG

emissions from past and ongoing clean technology

projects

Target: A decrease in emissions of 1 million tonnes

a year (equivalent to 250,000 passenger cars

removed from our roads) starting in 2017-18


Develop and demonstrate advanced materials technologies for the safe transportation of hydrocarbons and to reduce emissions in the transportation and industrial sectors

By improving the viability of technologies, contribute to increased deployment and use of safer, and more energy efficient materials.

Number of innovative materials technologies or

standards developed, contributed to, or validated by

NRCan for use in the safe transportation of

hydrocarbons and to reduce emissions in the

transportation and industrial sectors

Target: 3 over 5 years

2.2.1 Materials for Energy

Support voluntary action to reduce GHG

Provide financial contributions to FPInnovations, other forest sector

By providing stakeholders

with resources, contribute to Number of new products and processes resulting

1.2.2 Forest Sector Innovation


14

Clean Growth

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

and air pollutant emissions 1

research partners and eligible forest product companies for RD&D of new products, processes and technologies focused on clean energy such as biofuels

increased energy efficiency,

improved productivity and

associated environmental

benefits related to the forest

industry.

from NRCan information.

Target: 2 per year

Number of new economic development projects

facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by

Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge

and funding.

Target: 8 per year

Annual research plan endorsed by the

FPInnovations National Research Advisory

Committee.

Target: 1 endorsed research plan per year

Invest in technologies to reduce water pollution1

Develop new technology or processes to reduce the environmental footprint of mining operations, such as minimal liquid discharge mill using advanced separation and water treatment technologies

By developing technologies

to help ecosystem

restoration, and the

treatment and the reuse of

water, contribute to cleaner

mining operations.

Number of pilot-scale demonstration for water

management in mining and mineral processing

completed.

Target: at least one by 2020

2.2.2 Green Mining


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Sustainably Managed Lands and Forests: Lands and forests support biodiversity and provide variety of ecosystem services for generations to come

Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister of Natural Resources

Sustainably Managed

Lands and Forests

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Between now and 2020,

maintain Canada’s annual

timber harvest at or below

sustainable wood supply

levels

Better understand

lands and forests

Increase the scientific knowledge of forest ecosystems, including by:

Refining the Carbon Budget Model and using it to produce annual estimates of forest-related GHG emissions and removals in Canada

Providing forest managers with indicators and ready-to-use science-based adaptation toolkits

Supporting early intervention strategies for forest pest management

By providing scientific

knowledge on forest

ecosystems to Canadian

industry and non-government

organizations, contribute to a

reduction in tree loss due to

a changing climate and

thereby helping to maintain


levels and supporting an

annual sustainable timber

harvest. This includes

information on preparedness

against natural hazards and

risk mitigation of natural

disasters, maximizing

opportunities and minimizing

risks associated with climate

change.

Number of public and private sector new or updated

policies, regulations, or other decision-making tools

completed annually

Target: Provide input for 2 per year

Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees

Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on

advisory boards or committees involving the sharing

of knowledge on forest ecosystems to

governments, industry and nongovernmental

organizations

Participation on advisory boards and committees

stays within 10% of starting point

Number of active collaborations with public and

private sector that manage risk or opportunities to

human population, natural resources and

infrastructure health

Target: 3 collaboration agreements per year

Number of “adaptation toolkits” distributed directly

and viewed online annually



requirements.

2.3.1 Forest Ecosystems

Science and Application

3.1.3 Forest Disturbances


16

Sustainably Managed

Lands and Forests

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Use legislation and

regulations to manage

the spread of invasive

alien species

Develop science-based solutions and tools to better detect, slow the spread and reduce impact of invasive alien species, including working in partnership with the Canadian Food Inspection Agency to create wood packaging standards and control measures to manage known and unknown alien species

By enabling better decision-making on how to protect and manage Canadian forests under uncertainty, contribute to maintaining sustainable wood supply levels.




of knowledge on forest disturbances to

governments, industry, and non-governmental

organizations

Target: Participation on advisory boards and

committees stays within 10% of starting point

3.1.3 Forest Disturbances Science and Application

Build capacity and

provide support Through engagement with

provinces and territories, industry and international partners, develop and deliver science-based solutions to help reduce wildland fires for forest-based communities. Sharing international wildland fire management resources will advance fire response by fire management agencies and first responders. Opportunities for knowledge sharing include:

Canadian Interagency Forest Fire Centre

Canadian Council of Forest Minister’s Canadian Wildland Fire Strategy

By strengthening

collaboration and providing

governments, agencies and

industry with scientific

knowledge and technologies

on wildland fire, contribute to

a reduction in tree loss due

to wildland fire and thereby

helping to maintain


levels. This knowledge helps

all parties understand the

impacts of climate change on

wildland fire activity to better

deliver solutions and

emergency preparedness.






organizations




Develop a forest bioeconomy framework with the provinces and territories that identifies the type of concerted actions required for creating favourable research and investment conditions to enhance the growth and competitiveness of emerging bioeconomy activities in Canada

By looking into opportunities

of collaboration, contribute to

adaptation to a changing

climate and the creation of

jobs in the forest sector, and

helping to maintain


levels.

Developing a forest bioeconomy framework

Target: 1 framework endorsed with annual

reporting, as agreed by the members of the

Canadian Council of Forest Ministers

1.2.2 Forest Sector Innovation

Work with domestic

and international Work collaboratively with

provinces and territories, federal

By providing scientific and

technical knowledge, Starting point:100 advisory boards and committees 3.1.3 Forest Disturbances


http://www.ciffc.ca/

http://www.ciffc.ca/

17

Sustainably Managed

Lands and Forests

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

partners agencies (e.g., Canadian Food Inspection Agency and Public Safety Canada) and Indigenous communities to implement and advance wildland fire and forest pest strategies

contribute to the production

of a wildland fire research

strategy and national forest

pest strategy, addressing

current priorities and helping

to maintain sustainable wood

supply levels.





organizations



Build capacity and

provide support1

Provide Indigenous communities

and organizations with financial and technical support to increase their participation in Canada’s forest sector

By supporting sustainable

development and climate

change adaptation efforts in

Indigenous communities,

contribute to a sustainable

forest sector.

Number of new economic development projects

facilitated, brokered, and/or developed in/by

Indigenous communities with NRCan knowledge

and funding

Target: 8 new projects annually, facilitated,

brokered, and/or developed with NRCan knowledge

and funding

Annual research plan endorsed by the

FPInnovations National Research Advisory

Committee that includes linkages with forecasted

needs and priorities for Indigenous communities

Target: 1 endorsed research plan per year.

1.2.2 Forest Sector

Innovation

Better understand

lands and forests1

Evaluate reclamation strategies and decommissioning scenarios to determine the environmental performance of rehabilitated mine waste management sites in Canada

By providing governments, agencies and industry with scientific knowledge on best mine waste management strategies, contribute to improved ecosystem restoration.

Under development in parallel with indicators for

other departmental reporting requirements. 2.2.2 Green Mining


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Low-Carbon Government: The Government of Canada leads by example by making its operations low-carbon

Responsible Minister: All ministers

Low-Carbon

Government

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Reduce GHG emissions

from federal government

buildings and fleets by

40% below 2005 levels by

2030, with an aspiration to

achieve this reduction by

2025

Improve the energy

efficiency of our

buildings/operations Support the Treasury Board

Secretariat and Environment and Climate Change Canada in the development and the implementation of an action plan (under the departmental Low Carbon umbrella) for buildings and fleets in order to achieve the departmental GHG reduction goal of 40% by 2030

By reducing energy use

through efficiency measures,

contribute to reduced GHG

emissions by the

Department.

Starting point: GHG emissions from NRCan

facilities in fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 32.04

ktCO2eq

Current result:

GHG emissions from NRCan facilities in fiscal year

2016-17 = 20.34 ktCO2eq

Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from

facilities from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year

2016–17 = 37 %2

Target: 40% by 2030

2.1.4 Energy Efficiency 2.2.3 Clean Energy Science and Technology 4.1 Internal Services

Support the Treasury Board Secretariat and Environment and Climate Change Canada in the development and the implementation of an action plan (under the departmental Low Carbon umbrella) for buildings and fleets in order to achieve the departmental GHG reduction goal of 40% by 2030




emissions by the

Department.

Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from facilities from fiscal year 2005-06 to 2030

Target: 40% reduction (or 12.8 kilotons) in NRCan

facility emissions by 2030 from 2005 levels

2.1.4 Energy Efficiency 2.2.3 Clean Energy Science and Technology 4.1 Internal Services

Continue to modernize the departmental workplace to achieve more efficient and productive use of space through Workplace 2.0 standards

By aligning with Workplace

2.0 standards, contribute to

improved energy efficiency of

the Department`s buildings.

5% of office space is currently meeting Workplace

2.0 standards on NRCan’s primary office location in

the National Capital Region, the Booth Street

Complex (555, 601, 615, 580 and 588 Booth St.

and 560 Rochester St.).

Target: 25 % of office workspace at the Booth

4.1 Internal Services

2 To demonstrate federal leadership in greening government operations, between 2010 and 2016 Natural Resources Canada made it a departmental priority to improve energy performance of its operations. As a result, in 2016-17, NRCan had reduced its facility

emissions by 37% below the 2005 levels. With more challenging projects underway, NRCan is well positioned to meet the target of 40% reduction in GHG by 2030.

19

Low-Carbon

Government

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Street Complex that is to Workplace 2.0 standards

by 2025

Support the Treasury Board Secretariat Center for Greening Government by providing “a one-stop shop” for advice and technical support to other federal departments. This support will help federal organizations design and implement energy saving and GHG reduction projects in their facilities and deploy low-emission vehicles and charging stations. This work will also support the Center for Greening Government develop a centralized GHG inventory tool for reporting, monitoring and public disclosure of federal GHG emissions

By providing tools and

technical support to federal

organizations for greening

their buildings and fleet,


emissions by the

Government of Canada.

Energy saved in terajoules per year for all federal

organization projects that received support from

NRCan.

Targets:

80 kilotons of GHG emissions (CO2eq) saved

annually (equivalent to the emissions generated

annually by approximately 20,000 passenger

vehicles) from projects supported by NRCan by

2030;

750 terajoules saved annually (equivalent to the

annual energy used by approximately 6,750


transportation) by 2030 for other federal

organization projects that received NRCan

support

Number of federal organizations (departments,

agencies and Crown corporations) provided with

information, tools and services to improve energy

performance of federal buildings.

Target: Total increase from 64 to 70 by 2022

2.1.4 Energy efficiency 2.2.3 Clean Energy Science and Technology

Modernize the Building Management Plan (BMP) process and update the Building Condition Reports (BCR) with a focus on energy efficiency and through an environmental lens

By updating and modernizing

BMP and BCR processes,

contribute to energy

efficiency and improved

environmental performance

of the Department`s

buildings.

NRCan began a new multi-year round of BCRs in

the 2016-17 fiscal year.

Target: 50% of major sites will have BCR

completed by 2020-21 that would provide current

“health” status of the building portfolio, a

prerequisite to the planning of any improvement


Modernize our fleet Support the Treasury Board Secretariat and Environment and Climate Change Canada in the



Starting point: GHG emissions from NRCan fleet in

fiscal year 2005–06 (base year): = 1.78 ktCO2e

2.1.4 Energy Efficiency 2.2.3 Clean Energy

20

Low-Carbon

Government

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

development and the implementation of an action plan (under the departmental Low Carbon umbrella) for buildings and fleets in order to achieve the departmental GHG reduction goal of 40% by 2030


emissions from the

Department`s fleet.

Current results:

GHG emissions from NRCan fleet in fiscal year

2016-17 = 0.76 ktCO2e

Percentage (%) change in GHG emissions from fleet from fiscal year 2005-06 to fiscal year 2016–17 = 57%3 Target: 40% by 2030

Science and Technology


Deploy lower emitting transportation options into the Department’s fleet by working with Public Services and Procurement Canada and Treasury Board Secretariat Centre for Greening Government, identify infrastructure needs and coordinate installation of several charging stations for electric vehicles in the National Capital Region

By performing vehicle usage

analysis to determine the

lowest emitting option,

including supporting greater

zero emission vehicle

deployment, fleet right-sizing,

fuel switching, and driver

training, contribute to

reduced GHG emissions by

the Department`s fleet.

NRCan had two electric vehicle charging stations in

the National Capital region at the end of 2016.

Target: 2 new electric charging stations to be

installed by the end of the 2017-18



Support the transition

to a low-carbon

economy through

green procurement

Ensure that all performance agreements of Procurement Managers include contribution to, and are in support of, the Policy on Green Procurement

By embedding environmental

considerations related to

purchasing decisions into the

corporate culture, contribute

to greener procurement.

Number and percentage of managers and

functional heads of materiel and of procurement

whose performance evaluation includes support

and contribution toward green procurement is 8

(88%).

Target: 100% (or nine employees) by March 31, 2019 and ongoing


Raise departmental awareness of green procurement options related to Public Services and Procurement Canada standing offers

By embedding environmental considerations related to purchasing decisions into the corporate culture, contribute to greener procurement.

Number and percentage of procurement and/or

materiel management specialists who completed

the Canada School of Public Service Green

Procurement course (C215) or equivalent, in


3 To demonstrate federal leadership in greening government operations, between 2010 and 2016 Natural Resources Canada made it a departmental priority to improve energy performance of its operations. As a result, in 2016-17, NRCan had reduced its fleet

emissions by 57% below the 2005 levels. The Department continues its efforts to further reduce its emissions.

21

Low-Carbon

Government

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

current fiscal year is 31.

Target: 100% (or 34 specialists) by March 31, 2018

Promote sustainable

travel practises

Maintain GHG emission levels from business-related travel below the 2008-09 baseline level

By promoting sustainable travel practises and informing employees of alternative meeting arrangements (such as teleconferencing or videoconferencing), contribute to reduced GHG emissions.

Emission associated with business-related travel in

tons of carbon dioxide equivalent in the year as

provided by Public Services and Procurement

Canada (5729 tons in 2008-09).

Target: Greenhouse gas emissions associated with

business travel will be reduced by 30% (to 4,010

tons) by March 31, 2021


Effective Action on Climate Change: A low-carbon economy contributes to limiting global average temperature rise to well below two degrees Celsius and supports efforts to

limit the increase to 1.5 degrees Celsius Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; supported by a whole-of-government approach to implementation

Effective Action on

Climate Change

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

By 2030, reduce

Canada’s total GHG

emissions by 30%,

relative to 2005 emission

levels

Use regulations to limit GHG emissions

Set more than 35 minimum energy performance standards for appliances and equipment by 2020 under the Energy Efficiency Regulations

By setting minimum energy performance standards to improve the energy performance of appliances and equipment sold for homes and buildings across Canada, contribute to reduced GHG emissions.

Energy savings (petajoules) generated by regulated

standards

Starting point: 2.35 petajoules saved in 2015-16


to the annual energy used by approximately 59,850


transportation) by 2021


Work with partners on climate change Collaborate with the United States

of America and Mexico on a common benchmarking platform for the freight sector (the SmartWay Freight Partnership)

By helping industry to maximize efficiency and to reduce energy use in its freight operations, contribute to reduced GHG emissions.

Starting point: 0% Percentage of Canadian SmartWay freight transport companies that implement lower carbon transportation options as a result of the program. Target 60% annually


22

Effective Action on

Climate Change

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Undertake RD&D that informs policies, standards and codes

By focusing on environmental and competitiveness objectives in the areas of end use, clean energy and renewables, and fossil fuels, contribute to reduced GHG emissions.

Starting point: emission levels of 2016-17 Through NRCan supported RD&D, reduce GHG emissions (from past and ongoing clean energy technology projects). Target: A decrease in emissions of 1 million tonnes per year (equivalent to 250,000 passenger cars removed from our roads) starting in 2017-18


Support voluntary action to reduce GHG emissions and adapt to climate change

Improve the energy efficiency of : - Canadian homes through the

EnerGuide, ENERGY STAR® and R-2000 home labelling initiatives;

- The industrial sector using energy management systems such as ISO 50001, the Superior Energy Performance program, and the ENERGY STAR® or other industry programs to help businesses track, analyze, and improve their energy efficiency

By collaborating with

provinces and territories on

housing and industrial sector

programs, contribute to

improved energy efficiency

and reduced GHG

emissions.

Energy saved in petajoules from the energy

efficiency regulations and programs

Target: 74.5 petajoules saved (equivalent to the

annual energy used by approximately 670,500


transportation) in 2021 from energy efficiency

programs funded in Budget 2016

Energy saved by industry in petajoules from energy

efficiency programs




transportation) in 2021


Undertake RD&D to reduce methane emissions from the oil and gas sector

By supporting RD&D in the

oil and gas sector, contribute

to the transition towards a

low-carbon economy and

reduced GHG emissions.

Through NRCan supported RD&D contribute to

reducing methane emissions in the oil and gas

sector.

Target: Contribute to the national target of reducing

methane emissions by 40% to 45% by 2025.

2.2.3 Clean Energy

Science and Technology

Maintain and increase carbon stored in forested lands, wetlands and agricultural land by providing tools and information to decision

By supporting efficient

economic and ecological use

of forest resources,

contribute to adaptation to a

Number of public and private sectors new or updated policies, regulations, or other decision-making tools completed annually.

2.3.1 Forest Ecosystem


23

Effective Action on

Climate Change

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

makers through research, national assessments and monitoring to develop scientific information on Canada’s forest ecosystems, to support knowledge-based sustainable forest management policies and practices, such as with Carbon Budget Model and Ecosystem Management Emulating Natural Disturbance tools, which are validated annually

changing climate. Target: 3 per year

Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest ecosystems to governments, industry and non-governmental organizations. Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of the starting point Annual report on carbon emissions and removals in Canada’s managed forests within “The State of Canada’s Forests”. Target: 1 report per year.

Take a leading role in international agreements and initiatives on climate change1

Promote international

collaboration, including through the

United Nations Framework

Convention on Climate Change,

and under the North American

Climate, Clean Energy and

Environment Partnership, to

advance clean energy and

integration of energy resources

(including renewables), improve

energy efficiency, and strengthen

the reliability, resilience and

security of the North American

electricity grid

By promoting and working

towards Canada's

commitments in international

agreements and initiatives on

climate change, contribute to

reduced GHG emissions.

Percentage of Canada’s objectives for meetings of

international climate and clean energy fora that are

advanced through negotiations and consensus.

Target: 70%

2.1.2 Support for Clean Energy Decision-making



24

Effective Action on

Climate Change

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Work with partners on climate change1

Maintain leadership of Canada’s Climate Change Adaptation Platform

Develop and share knowledge and tools, providing science information, and building capacity to enhance the resilience of communities and infrastructure to the impacts of climate change, particularly on Canada’s North and coasts

By helping Canadians identify and prioritize activities, contribute to adaptation to a changing climate.

Number of new knowledge products released by the Climate Change Adaptation Platform and the Climate Change Geoscience Program.

Target: 20 new knowledge products per year

3.1.4 Climate Change Adaptation

Conduct climate policy research and analysis1

Create and disseminate information products and tools in support of decisions on climate change and clean energy issues

By providing tools and

information to support

decision making on climate

change and clean energy

issues, contribute to reduced

GHG emissions.

Percentage of tools and information made available

to decision makers in a timely manner.

Target: 100%

2.1.2 Support for Clean Energy Decision-making

Provide in-kind support and funding for climate resilience1

Provide support for evaluation, advice, and participation in workshops.

Deliver a contribution program that funds cost-shared, collaborative projects aimed at developing, transferring and integrating adaptation information and tools

By enabling key stakeholders

across Canada to have

access to new knowledge on

risks and opportunities to

support decision-making and

action, contribute to


climate.

Under development in parallel with indicators for

other departmental reporting requirements.

3.1.4 Climate Change

Adaptation

Develop a solid base of scientific research and analysis on climate change1

Conduct enhanced research and analysis to develop scientific knowledge of forest disturbances (e.g., wildland fire, pests and climate change), which are used in collaboration with the public and private sectors to forecast impacts

By providing governments,

agencies and industry with

scientific knowledge on forest

disturbances, including

wildland fire, contribute to the

mitigation of effects from and


Starting point: 100 advisory boards and committees Participation of the Canadian Forest Service on advisory boards or committees involving the sharing of knowledge on forest disturbances to governments, industry, and non-governmental organizations



25

Effective Action on

Climate Change

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

and develop mitigation and adaptation strategies

climate. Target: Participation on advisory boards and committees stays within 10% of starting point

Number of active collaborations with public and private sectors that manage risk or opportunities to human population, natural resources and infrastructure health Target: Collecting data on 3 collaboration agreements per year

Provide new ‘big data’ tools and

infrastructure for analyzing earth

observation and other geospatial

data to detect changes in land,

water, natural resources and

infrastructure, and facilitate

discoverability and access to

geospatial information for

prevention and implementation of

mitigation programs for natural

disasters such as flooding

By providing stakeholder

access to comprehensive,

reliable and accurate

geospatial information

consistent with international

standards, contribute to the

mitigation of effects from a

changing climate.

Starting point: to be determined in 2018-2019

Number of times geospatial information tools and

services are accessed

Average time elapsed from image receipt to the

staging of emergency flood response products

Target: 4 hours or less

3.2.1 Essential Geographic Information

Modern and Resilient Infrastructure: Modern, sustainable, and resilient infrastructure supports clean economic growth and social inclusion

Responsible Minister: Minister of Infrastructure and Communities

Modern and Resilient

Infrastructure

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

By the end of 2025-2026,

invest $20 billion in

funding for green

infrastructure initiatives

that reduce GHG

Work with partners on

green infrastructure

Enhance the Energy Code for Buildings by 2020 and move towards net zero-energy-ready buildings

By improving the energy

efficiency of codes in target

sectors, such as buildings,

through international

regulatory alignments,

The starting point for commercial/institutional

buildings is the 2011 model National Energy Code

for Buildings (NECB). The starting point for housing

is the 2015 model National Building Code (NBC),

Part 9.36.


26


Infrastructure

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

emissions and improve

climate resilience and

environmental quality

contribute to greener

infrastructure.

Performance assessed by increased average

efficiency of model energy code requirements

between each update.

Targets:

30% improvement in NECB efficiency by 2020;

Develop a tiered net-zero energy ready model

National Building Code by 2020

Demonstrate key emerging Smart Grid technologies essential to integrate a higher proportion of renewables onto the grid

Support RD&D to drive down the cost and create market confidence in net zero building construction

Demonstrate innovative clean energy solutions for northern communities and reduce their reliance on diesel power

Facilitate the development and deployment of next generation electric vehicle charging infrastructure

By funding technology

demonstration projects that

reduce cost and address

technical hurdles, contribute

to the deployment of next-

generation clean energy

technologies pertaining to

infrastructure.


energy S&T to leveraged funding from partners

Target: 1:1 ratio

Reductions in GHG emissions from NRCan funded

projects of green innovation

Target: 11.44 megatons annually (equivalent to

2.86 million passenger cars removed from our

roads) by 2030

Advancing Clean Energy Technologies

Target: 50% of RD&D projects advance the technology readiness level of emerging technologies, by one level, by 2023.


Support the shift from higher to lower-emitting types of transportation, including through investing in infrastructure

By providing funds to

increase the number of

recharging and refuelling

stations in Canada,

contribute to the transition to

low-carbon options in the

transportation sector through

Number of recharging and refuelling stations

completed by funded project proponents (potential

owners/operators of recharging/refuelling stations)

along key coast-to-coast transportation corridors

(by fuel type).

Target: Phase 1 deployment, ending in March 2018


27


Infrastructure

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

greener infrastructure. has targets of 70 electric vehicle recharging

stations, 6 natural gas and 2 hydrogen refuelling

stations by 2018

Healthy Coasts and Oceans: Coasts and oceans support healthy, resilient and productive ecosystems

Responsible Minister: Minister of Fisheries, Oceans and the Canadian Coast Guard

Healthy Coasts and

Oceans

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

By 2020, 10% of coastal

and marine areas are

conserved through

networks of protected

areas and other effective

area-based conservation

measures

Protect and manage marine and coastal areas

Complete resource and economic assessments to support the establishment of marine protected areas under the Marine Conservation Target initiative

By producing resource and

economic assessments to

establish a protected area,

contribute to marine and

coastal environment

conservation.

Starting point: No assessments have been

completed. New assessments are required to

inform decisions on marine protected areas

Complete resource assessments for areas

proposed by Fisheries and Oceans Canada and

Parks Canada to help Canada achieve its goal of

protecting 5% of marine and coastal areas by 2017

and 10% by 2020.

Target: 10 qualitative or quantitative resource and

economic assessments over 3 years

1.1.3 Energy Market

Access and Diversification

2.3.3: Environmental Studies and Assessments

Generate maps of the seafloor to provide increased knowledge of natural hazards that could affect port facilities, tanker safety and oil spill prevention on the B.C. coast

By conducting scientific

studies to support marine

safety as part of the Oceans

Protection Plan, contribute to

the protection of our marine

and coastal environment.

Starting point is 4 publications per year

Number of publications (including maps) released

relating to natural hazards in existing or proposed

areas of marine infrastructure.

Target: 5 publications per year

3.1.5 Geohazards and Public Safety

Encourage industrial RD&D to improve recovery technologies, as well as inform integrated response plans

By informing emergency

response plans and

decisions for spill pollution,

contribute to the protection of

Number of scientific publications and products

related to measurable advances in spill recovery in

the marine environment


28

Healthy Coasts and

Oceans

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

our marine and coastal

environment.

Target: Beginning in 2019, at least one scientific

publication or product per year

Pristine Lakes and Rivers: Clean and healthy lakes and rivers support economic prosperity and the well-being of Canadians

Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change

Pristine Lakes and

Rivers

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

Work with partners on water quality and ecosystem health1

Using landscape–level considerations, assess influences of forest management and other disturbances on forest and aquatic biodiversity and ecosystem services with academic, provincial and industry partners. This will be supported by:

Developing and testing effective and cost-efficient biophysical sustainability indicators

Refining remote sensing and enhanced forest inventory tools to assess critical terrestrial and aquatic habitats

By supporting governments,

industry and non-

governmental organizations

for multiple purposes,

including developing forest

management practices and

policies, that consider

impacts on aquatic

biodiversity and ecosystem

services, contribute to

maintain the health of lakes

and rivers.




of knowledge on forest ecosystems to

governments, industry and nongovernmental

organizations



2.3.1 Forest Ecosystems Science and Application

Conduct research to better understand the risk potential (i.e. remobilization) of metals in lake and river ecosystems in a changing climate

By developing scientific

evidence to understand the

threat of climate change on

environmental effects of

metals and mines, contribute

Scientific evidence (e.g. publications, reports) used

for environmental policy/guidance development.

Target: 3 by 2023

2.2.2 Green Mining


29

Pristine Lakes and

Rivers

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

to maintain the health of

lakes and rivers.

Develop space-based technologies (e.g. remote sensing) and modelling forecasting methods that will allow a quantitative evaluation of groundwater resources

Complete the National Hydro Network by creating and maintaining seamless transboundary watersheds and sub-watershed data that can be jointly used by agencies on both sides of the Canada/US border

By collaboratively developing

and providing space-based

technologies and modelling

forecasting methods,

contribute to a better

understanding of

groundwater resources.

Starting point: to be set in 2018-2019

Development of space-based technologies.

Completion of the National Hydro Network



requirements.


Better understand lake and river ecosystems1 Map the regional aquifer system of

Southern-Ontario to assess the contribution of groundwater resources to the Great Lakes system and thus support water resources management

By providing information and

tool, contribute to improved

sustainable land-use

decision-making and

groundwater management

essential for rural drinking

water and ecosystem health.

Number of citations from public and/or private

sector organizations incorporating NRCan's

groundwater geoscience information and tools into

their products (e.g. aquifer maps and data, methods

and approaches, plans and reports)

Target: 5 per year

2.3.2 Groundwater

Geoscience

Develop international groundwater resource data management standards to improve datasets interoperability

By providing information and

tool, contribute to improved

sustainable land-use

decision-making and

groundwater management

essential for rural drinking

water and ecosystem health.



groundwater geoscience information and tools into

their products (e.g., aquifer maps and data,

methods and approaches, plans and reports)

Target: 5 per year

2.3.2 Groundwater Geoscience

Conduct research projects to evaluate the role of modifying factors on fate and effect of metals


evidence, contribute to

improved regulations and


for policy/guidance development 2.2.2 Green Mining


30

Pristine Lakes and

Rivers

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

associated with regulated mining discharge into lake and river ecosystems in Canada

decreased environmental

effects of metals and mines

on lakes and rivers.

Target: 3 by 2023

Use legislation and

regulations to protect

lake and river

ecosystems1

Provide scientific evidence to improve the environmental relevance of Metal and Mining Effluent Regulations (MMERs)


evidence, contribute to

improved regulations and

decreased impacts of metal

and mining effluent on the

environment, particularly

lakes and rivers.


for policy/regulation development.

CanmetMINING will also provide scientific advice to

regulators (Environment and Climate Change

Canada) in the development of MMERs

Target: 3 by 2023

2.2.2 Green Mining

Develop method to assess the aquatic hazard classification of metals and metal compounds

By developing innovative

methods to understand metal

fate, contribute to better

regulation of environmental

impacts, particularly for lakes

and rivers.


for both domestic and international regulation

development

Target: 3 by 2023

2.2.2 Green Mining

Safe and Healthy Communities: All Canadians live in clean, sustainable communities that contribute to their health and well-being

Responsible Minister: Minister of Environment and Climate Change; Minister of Health

Safe and Healthy

Communities

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)




Starting point(s) where available, performance

indicators for departmental actions



occur

Prevent environmental

emergencies or

mitigate their impacts1

Release of scientific publications, reports and maps to inform the safe location, design and operation of the built environment; support the environmentally and socially responsible development of natural resources; and support the

By providing access to new

knowledge on geological

hazards to organizations,

contribute to the prevention

of environmental

emergencies or the

Number of new knowledge products released to

open and accessible databases.

Target: 25 annually



31

Safe and Healthy

Communities

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

plans and operation of emergency management organizations

mitigation of their impacts.

Conduct and provide real-time seismic and geomagnetic monitoring information to the governments, emergency management agencies, critical infrastructure operators, media outlets and the public

By providing credible

information on impacts and

consequences of natural

emergency events contribute

to their prevention or the


Starting point: to be set from 2016-2017 results.

Percentage of earthquakes of magnitude 4.0 or

higher within Canada for which a notification was

issued in four minutes or less from the time of

sufficient data availability.

Target: 75% (within the accuracy of four minutes or

less), and 99% within 10 minutes


Develop new science and technology to ensure readiness for 2018 launch of the RADARSAT Constellation Mission. Data from the Mission would support efforts in maritime surveillance, disaster management and ecosystem monitoring

By providing up-to-date and

comprehensive landmass

and water information to

support socio-economic and

environmental decisions,

contribute to the prevention

of environmental

emergencies or the


Number of times geospatial information tools and

services are accessed

Average time elapsed from image receipt to the

staging of emergency flood response products

Target: 4 hours or less


Provide information to

inform action and

decision making1

Implement Interim Measures to guide federal decisions on proposed major energy transmission projects (such as oil and gas pipelines), including the use of science, evidence, and traditional Indigenous knowledge; enhanced public engagement and Indigenous consultation; and direct and upstream GHG assessments

By informing decision

makers, and ensuring the

public and Indigenous groups

are engaged on proposed

resource projects, contribute

to informed action and

decision-making for the

reviews of proposed major

energy transmission projects.

Percentage of proposed major energy transmission

project reviews that fulfill the Interim Measures

during the interim period.

Target: 100%

1.3.5: Major Projects Management Office Initiative

Co-develop and support the operations of Indigenous Advisory and Monitoring Committees for the Trans Mountain Pipeline Expansion Project (TMEP) and Line 3 Pipeline Replacement Program as a meaningful,

By supporting meaningful

Indigenous participation in

the full lifecycle of energy

infrastructure development,

including environmental

oversight, provision of

Starting point: No current active involvement of

Indigenous groups in monitoring of major pipeline

projects.

Proposed indicator: Percentage of participating

Indigenous groups who are satisfied with the

1.1.3. Energy Market Access and Diversification

32

Safe and Healthy

Communities

FSDS target(s)

FSDS Contributing

Action(s)


action(s)








occur

transparent and accountable forum through which Indigenous communities can engage with and provide input to federal regulators and the proponent as well as participate in monitoring the project over its full lifecycle

advice, and monitoring,

contribute to informed action

and decision-making

pertaining to the monitoring

of major pipeline projects.

Committees’ role in monitoring of the projects.

Target: To be confirmed in collaboration with

Indigenous partners.

Provide innovative scientific information to distinguish between the effects of human activity and resource development and those effects produced by natural processes on the environment


expertise, contribute to

informed action and decision-

making for resource

development.



environmental geoscience information into their

products.

Target: 5 per year

2.3.3 Environmental Studies and Assessments

Cooperate with the Canadian Environmental Assessment Agency, review boards of the North and other federal stakeholders by providing science-based evidence and information to support environmental assessments


expertise during

environmental assessment

processes, contribute to

informed action and decision-

making pertaining to

proposed projects.

Percentage of projects where NRCan has provided

advice that is ultimately incorporated into an

environmental assessment process.

Target: 100%

2.3.3 Environmental Studies and Assessments

Provide oversight of federal funding for the Province of Saskatchewan’s Gunnar Mine Remediation Project

By proving oversight on the

use of federal funds,

contribute to informed action

and decision-making for the

remediation of the legacy

uranium mining and milling

facilities at Gunnar in

northern Saskatchewan.

Payment of $1.13 million was made to

Saskatchewan in 2007 for the federal share of

Phase 1 of the Project.

Percentage of payments made to Saskatchewan in

the year they are required for eligible Phase 2 and

Phase 3 expenses, as defined in the 2006

Memorandum of Agreement.


Continue efforts to enhance the safety and security of federally regulated infrastructure (i.e. energy transportation), including through legislative and regulatory measures and the modernization of the National Energy Board

By supporting the

establishment of a sound

liability, legislative and

regulatory regime, contribute

to informed action and

decision-making for oil and

gas development.

Number of assessments and/or updates to energy

regulations or legislation and/or Canada's energy

regulatory or legislative frameworks are tracked

Target: 2 per year


33

Section 4. Integrating sustainable development

Sustainable development is central to the mandate of NRCan and essential to the future of the

natural resources sector. NRCan is responsible for ensuring the sustainable development of

Canada’s energy resources, minerals and metals, and forests, and for providing the

geographical and geological information that supports decisions about Canada’s land-based

and offshore resources and the management of these lands.

NRCan’s decision-making process considers FSDS goals and targets through the Strategic

Environmental Assessment (SEA) process. A SEA for policy, plan or program proposals

assesses whether the proposal will result in environmental effects, both positive and negative,

and how elements of the proposal contribute to achieving FSDS goals and targets. NRCan’s

SEA process includes three levels:

1. Preliminary SEA - determines the need for further analysis

2. SEA Scan - identifies the importance of the environmental effects likely to arise from

a proposal

3. Detailed SEA - comprehensive analysis of important environmental effects

A summary of the results of NRCan’s detailed SEAs is made public when an initiative is

announced (see NRCan webpage). The purpose of the public statement is to demonstrate that

the environmental effects, including the impacts on achieving the FSDS goals and targets, of

the approved policy, plan or program have been considered during proposal development and

decision-making.

NRCan continues to measure SEA performance through the rate of compliance with the Cabinet

Directive on the Environmental Assessment of Policy, Plan and Program Proposals and its

guidelines. This includes determining how many approved proposals contributed to the FSDS.

http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/assessment/145

http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/assessment/145

http://www.nrcan.gc.ca/assessment/public-statements/147

34

Conclusion

With more than 80 departmental actions, NRCan plays a key role in supporting the FSDS. The

DSDS illustrate how the Department contributes to domestic and international initiatives that are

important for Canadians, including the Pan-Canadian Framework on Clean Growth and Climate

Change, the Canadian Energy Strategy, the North American Energy Strategy, Mission

Innovation, the Oceans Protection Plan, the implementation of interim measures to guide

decisions on pipelines and the review of the environmental assessment process. To implement

concrete actions in support of sustainable development, the Department works closely with

partners such as provinces and territories, Indigenous peoples, communities, industry,

academia and non-governmental organizations.

NRCan will update its 2017-20 DSDS on an annual basis to reflect new priorities of the Minister

and of the Government, as well as new initiatives approved, making this an evergreen Strategy.

New performance indicators will also be included as part of the update, reflecting NRCan’s

commitment to bringing concrete results for Canadians.

natural resources canada 2017-2020 departmental ... › ... › 2017-20 › dsds-2017-20_e.pdf ·...

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